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Rock Manager Tapped for Arts Center's Top Job
9 Oct
Summary
- New artistic director has managed rock musicians like ZZ Top.
- Center faces two years of renovations and financial instability.
- Controversial fees and expenses questioned during consultant phase.
The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts has appointed Rick Canny, a manager known for his work with rock musicians, as its new artistic director. This decision comes as the venue's main building is set to close for a two-year renovation. Canny's role will involve setting the center's creative direction during and after the extensive upgrades, aiming to stabilize its finances and attract a wider audience.
Canny's tenure as a consultant has already faced challenges, including internal concerns about his fees and travel expenses. Despite these issues, the center highlighted his decades of experience in talent buying and concert promotion. The center is also embroiled in legal battles regarding its planned $250 million renovation project, which was temporarily halted due to safety concerns.
With its main building closed, the Kennedy Center will continue limited programming at its annex, The Reach. Major events like the Kennedy Center Honors are slated to take place at alternative venues. Canny has expressed confidence in his ability to lead the center's artistic strategy and engage with the broader entertainment industry, including partnerships with Live Nation and Ticketmaster.
